IV fluids. You may be given an IV of fluids and electrolytes to help nourish your body and prevent dehydration.

Surgery. If less invasive treatments don’t reduce the size of the toxic megacolon within two to three days, you may need surgery to remove part or all of the colon.

Your doctor may have you stop taking certain medications while you're being treated for toxic megacolon. Opioids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, medications to stop diarrhea, antidepressants, and anticholinergic medicines are among those that can make the condition worse.

Complications

If untreated, a toxic megacolon can result in severe complications, such as:

Bleeding and blood loss

Sepsis, or whole-body infection

Abnormal hole in the colon called a perforation

Shock

Toxic megacolon can be fatal if not treated.

Prevention

Your best strategy for preventing toxic megacolon is to manage chronic conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease

When to call the doctor

Seek immediate medical help or have someone call 911 if you have severe abdominal pain and these symptoms:

Frequent diarrhea

Bloody diarrhea

Swelling in your abdomen

Fever

Rapid heart rate

Signs of shock, such as a weak pulse, cool or clammy skin, dilated eyes, confusion, and rapid or shallow breathing